A marketing communications professional with 30 years of editorial experience, I spent 25 years at the University of Chicago, rising to Assistant Vice President of Creative Communications and later Assistant Vice President of Alumni Relations & Development Communications.

During my tenure, I rebuilt the communications teams within the Graduate School of Business, University Communications, and Alumni Relations & Development, elevating creative production across the university and setting a new standard for in-house creative teams. I led the development of the University of Chicago’s graphic identity and messaging, produced the first brand guidelines in the university’s history, and defined the distinctive voice of the University of Chicago through my own writing and by guiding others across the institution. I helped launch the $4.5 billion University of Chicago Campaign: Inquiry and Impact, leading teams that developed the case statement, launch event, video, website, publication, and series of "road shows."

Previously an award-winning feature writer, columnist, and editor at a suburban Chicago newspaper, I am ultimately a storyteller who inspires and informs through direct yet poetic prose.

NOW

In March 2016 I established Colleen Newquist, Inc., where I help institutions find their voice and articulate their vision. Recent projects include:

- Working with Furman University in Greenville, South Carolina to communicate a new initiative, The Furman Advantage, through a vision document, brochure copy, magazine story, and full-page ads in the New York Times and Chronicle of Higher Education.

- Helping Harris Public Policy at the University of Chicago refine and communicate its new identity through an event, website, and videos.